for the tent over the tabernacle
The tent over the tabernacle served as an additional layer of protection and separation, emphasizing the holiness of the tabernacle itself. The tabernacle was the dwelling place of God among His people, a precursor to the temple and ultimately to Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14). This layering signifies the need for mediation between God and man, fulfilled in Jesus.

eleven curtains in all
The number eleven is unique here, as it is one more than ten, which often represents completeness or divine order. The extra curtain may symbolize the abundance of God's provision and protection. In the broader biblical narrative, numbers often carry symbolic meaning, and the odd number here could suggest the idea of going beyond what is expected, reflecting God's grace.

- The “he” refers to Bezalel and the craftsmen whom the LORD had “filled with wisdom… to perform every kind of craftsmanship” (Exodus 36:1).

- Their work follows God’s pattern, not human innovation (Exodus 25:9).

- Obedient, skilled workmanship illustrates how God expects His people to follow His word precisely (James 1:22; Matthew 7:24).

- Each step advances the project that began with the people’s willing offerings (Exodus 35:20-29), reminding us that redeemed hearts produce practical service (Ephesians 2:10).

- Goat hair is durable, weather–resistant, and plentiful among Israel’s flocks (Proverbs 27:23-27).

- In sacrificial law, goats often bear sin (Leviticus 16:5-10), so the outer layer of goat hair symbolizes covering and atonement—pointing ahead to the One who “bore our sins in His body on the tree” (1 Peter 2:24).

- The material’s dark color contrasted with the brightly colored inner curtains (Exodus 36:8), showing how God’s glory is protected yet approachable (Psalm 91:4).

- The use of ordinary animal fiber assures every generation that God works through the common and the humble (1 Corinthians 1:27-29).

- The goat-hair curtains formed the first protective covering over the holy structure (Exodus 26:7-13).

- Layering teaches separation: God is holy, yet He graciously dwells among His people (Leviticus 26:11-12; John 1:14).

- The outer tent guarded the inner sanctuary from wilderness elements, just as Christ shields believers from judgment while granting access to the Father (Hebrews 10:19-22).

- Practical application: our lives should “adorn the doctrine of God” (Titus 2:10), providing a faithful covering that honors His indwelling presence.

- The inner linen layer had ten panels (Exodus 36:8); this outer layer adds one more, extending protection on every side.

- Eleven panels allowed the goat-hair covering to reach the ground, fully sheltering the structure (Exodus 26:13), picturing complete security in God (Psalm 125:2).

- Scripture often uses numbers symbolically; here the extra curtain emphasizes abundant provision—“far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or imagine” (Ephesians 3:20).

- The precise count reflects divine order; nothing in God’s blueprint is random (1 Corinthians 14:33).

Exodus 36:14 highlights obedient craftsmanship, atoning symbolism, divine protection, and meticulous order. The craftsmen fashioned eleven goat-hair curtains exactly as commanded, forming a sturdy outer tent that guarded the sacred meeting place. In doing so, they displayed how God covers His people, dwells among them, and provides complete security through precise, grace-filled provision.

Parallel Commentaries ...